The 27-year-old, who can play either side of the scrum, joins Saracens from South African franchise the Sharks as incoming Director of Rugby Brendan Venter continues to build his squad for the new campaign.

Prop Venter, who has also enjoyed a spell with Connacht in the Magners League in 2005, will join the likes of Italian internationals Carlos Nieto and Matias Aguero in the Saracens front row next season along with England Saxons prop Tom Mercey.

And the ability of the 6ft, 18stone prop to play at tight head or loose head will prove invaluable as Director of Rugby Venter explained. "Frik is a typical ball-carrying loosehead prop, who can develop into the complete package. He can also play at tight head, making him even more valuable in light of the IRB's proposed law changes relating to the front row."

Venter added: "We are fortunate to have secured the services of Cobus Visagie as scrum coach next season, and I am looking forward to seeing him work with six props, each of whom will be capable of competing for a place in the match-day 23. Bearing in mind the outstanding development of Tom Mercey in recent months, the prospects are excellent."